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All Limited Edition In-Ear Headphones Include Case and Interchangeable Tips

Just ahead of Independence day celebrations, Westone announced on June 1st, 2012, the opening of their much anticipated “Made Right Here” sweepstakes. Winners of the sweepstakes will receive anything from Westone apparel to a Grand Prize including round-trip airfare and accommodations to visit the Westone headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colorado and a list of stuff too long to list here (click on any of the links in this paragraph for more info). While no purchase is necessary to enter the sweepstakes, each Westone has released special edition red, white, and blue versions of their popular UM1, UM2, and UM3x each with the chance to win.

Proudly crafted in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the Westone in-ear headphones are among the finest in audio reproduction. With all the excitement surrounding the sweepstakes aside, this is a great opportunity to evaluate exactly what sets the UM1, UM2, and UM3x apart.

Westone UM1 Review

UM1 in Blue

the Limited Edition UM1 is available in the complete array of patriotic colors and featured in red, white, and blue. The construction of these headphones is lightweight and the package includes enough ear-tips to give users a wide selection as well as the possibility of finding the best fit. Part of the reason these in-ear monitors are so light is because they utilize a micro balanced armature driver.

In terms of sound signature, the Westone UM1 are well balanced and neutral making it an ideal in-ear headphone for critical listeners or for use as a reference headphone. As the entry level model, the UM1 is quite impressive. While the transparency of the UM1 is certain to be regarded as a highly desirable quality from audio purists and recording artists, it is likely to leave mainstream users accustomed to heavy coloration, particularly in the lower frequencies, craving a little more drama. Nonetheless, whether you are a recording artist, an analytical listener, or just venturing into high-end audio, the UM1 is a great in-ear monitor on a budget.

Westone UM2 Review

UM2 in Red with Attached Cord

The Limited Edition UM2 is offered with a removable cord in White and Blue or with the attached cable in Red and White. Like just about every Westone In-Ear model, the UM2 are extremely comfortable and include a broad selection of eartips. The UM2 are also extremely light weight and are physically non-fatiguing making them ideal for long listening sessions.

In terms of hardware, the UM2 feature two micro balanced armature drivers with passive crossover that separates high and low frequencies, sending them to the corresponding driver. Having high and low frequencies played by dedicated drivers gives the UM2 the its famed sound stage. Unlike many in-ear headphones, the UM2 feature a convincing sound stage with accurate vertical and horizontal placement as well as perceivable depth.

The sound signature of the UM2 benefits greatly from the separation of high and low frequencies. The UM2 delivers bass that is accurate and noticeably separate from the higher frequencies. As a result, bass and treble coexist in pleasant harmony without muddying each other or robbing one another of texture and nuance. Overall, the UM2 is a remarkable and thoroughly enjoyable in-ear headphone

Westone UM3x Review

UM3x with Attached Cord

The UM3x is available in either White or Blue with a removable cord or in Red and White with the attached cord. The UM3x is a supercharged version of the UM2. By integrating a third micro balanced armature driver, the UM3x features a passive crossover network that effectively separates the incoming signal and directs it to the high, mid, and woofer drivers. This results in greater articulation of specific frequencies. The UM3x offers a broad sound stage in which high, mids, and bass are each separately detailed and delivered with utmost clarity. Do not expect to find even a hint of muddling with this in-ear monitor. For the ultimate experience, there are very few in-ear monitors that deliver such an immersive experience as the UM3x.

Overall

The “Made Right Here” series of special edition in-ear headphones offers a model for every level. Whether you are just launching into new aural adventures or are an experienced and seasoned musician with high demands, Westone offers something patriotic and efficient. Make sure not to miss out on the excellent prizes and give-aways by entering the “Made Right Here” sweepstakes.

Click Here for Sweepstakes Entry Form and Details, Contest Ends July 31st, 2012